First impressions matter, and this is especially true when it comes to selling your home. A bad first impression can cost you thousands of pounds, as potential buyers are more likely to make an offer below the asking price or even walk away altogether. If they even walk through the door! An overpriced property in any market will not attract any viewings from the portals to start with!
There are a number of things that can contribute to a bad first impression, such as a cluttered or dirty home, a bad smell, or a lack of curb appeal. Even something as simple as a messy driveway or unkempt garden can turn off potential buyers.
A study by eXp UK found that 69% of potential buyers would not consider a second viewing if they had a bad first impression of a property. The study also found that 31% of buyers would offer up to 10% less than the asking price on a property that made a bad first impression. eXp UK, the platform for personal estate agents, surveyed over 1,000 UK homebuyers to have purchased over the last year. They found that:
- A shabby exterior or interior is the most likely thing to make a bad first impression, with 43% of buyers saying this would be a deal-breaker.
- The size of the property is also important, with 35% of buyers saying they would be less likely to buy a property that was too small.
- A bad smell is another major turn-off, with 25% of buyers saying they would not consider a property that had a bad odor.
- An unkept front garden is also a major negative, with 20% of buyers saying this would make them less likely to buy a property.
eXp UK also found that a bad first impression could cost you up to £60,000 in the current market. This is because potential buyers are more likely to make an offer below the asking price if they have a bad first impression.
So, what can you do to avoid making a bad first impression when selling your home? Here are a few tips:
Start by decluttering and cleaning your home. This means getting rid of any unnecessary furniture, belongings, or decorations. You should also clean all surfaces, including the floors, walls, and windows.
- Make sure your home is well-lit. This will make the space feel more inviting and spacious. You can use natural light by opening up the curtains and blinds, or you can use artificial light by adding lamps or overhead fixtures.
- Get rid of any bad smells. This could mean cleaning up pet accidents, cooking food that doesn't have a strong odor, or using an air freshener.
- Pay attention to curb appeal. This means making sure your home looks its best from the outside. You should trim the hedges, mow the lawn, and wash the windows.
By following these tips, you can avoid making a bad first impression and increase your chances of selling your home for a good price.
Here are some additional tips to help you make a good first impression when selling your home:
- Stage your home. This means arranging the furniture and décor in a way that makes the space look its best. You can hire a professional stager to help you, or you can do it yourself.
- Take good photos of your home. These photos will be used in your online listings, so it's important to make sure they are high-quality and well-lit.
- Be prepared to answer questions. Potential buyers will likely have a lot of questions about your home, so be prepared to answer them honestly and in a timely manner.
- Be friendly and welcoming. The first impression you make on potential buyers will be lasting, so make sure you are friendly and welcoming when they arrive.
- By following these tips, you can make a good first impression and increase your chances of selling your home quickly and for a good price.
Are you curious about the value of your home in South London? Why not drop me a line or check out my free online valuation tool!
I am an experienced estate agent in South London, and I would be happy to help you get the best possible price for your property. I can provide you with a free online valuation, and I can also help you market your property to the right buyers.
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